Maker Index

Calculating machines were known by the names of inventor (Baldwin, Barbour, Bolleé, Grant), famous mathematicians (Archimedes), desired characteristics (Millionaire, Rapid), and investors (Monroe). The following list makes it easier to see related products.  Trade names are used instead of company names as these show up most frequently on objects.

This full-keyboard, non-printing manually operated pinwheel calculating machine has a metal frame painted black and nine columns of plastic keys, with three columns black, three columns white, and three more columns black. At the base of each bank of keys is a red clearance key.
Description
This full-keyboard, non-printing manually operated pinwheel calculating machine has a metal frame painted black and nine columns of plastic keys, with three columns black, three columns white, and three more columns black. At the base of each bank of keys is a red clearance key. The underlying keyboard is painted green. Metal rods between banks of keys serve as decimal markers.
Right of the number keys is a red keyboard clearance key, a multiply/divide key, and an addition/subtraction key. The operating crank on the right rotates backward (clockwise) for addition and multiplication and forward (counterclockwise) for subtraction and division.
Behind the keyboard is a movable carriage with the 18 windows of the result register. A lever at the front of the machine shifts the carriage, a button on the right side releases it, and a crank on the left end of the carriage clears it. Behind and above the carriage are nine windows showing digits entered, a lever that can be set for multiplication or division, and nine windows for the revolution register. Rotating a small crank on the right side clears this register.
Decimal markers slide on metal rods above all three registers. A metal flange below the result register helps the user place the carriage correctly. The machine has four rubber feet. At the back, two wooden cylinders have been attached to the base at the corners, so that the machine sits at an angle.
Plates attached to the right and left side read: MARCHANT. A metal plate right of the keyboard reads; MARCHANT (/) CALCULATORS (/) SIMPLICITY (/) ACCURACY (/) SPEED. A maker’s mark under the carriage on the right reads: 2097. A stamp on the bottom of the machine reads: KC 2097.
The Model KC, introduced in 1923 with initial serial number 1000, was one of Marchant Calculating Machine Company’s first three keyboard machines. It sold in 1924 for $350.00. By 1928 it was replaced by the model H-9.
Calvin Lieberman, the donor of this object, was associated with the steel recyling business in Toledo, Ohio, from at least 1937 through 1980.
References:
J. H. McCarthy, American Digest of Business Machines, 1924, pp. 75–76, 549.
Business Machines and Equipment Digest, 1928, vol. I, p. 9–23.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1925
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Co.
ID Number
1980.0805.01
catalog number
1980.0805.01
accession number
1980.0805
maker number
KC 2097
The Swedish-born inventor Carl Friden was stranded in Australia during World War I and then, on his way back to Sweden, decided to settle in California. He found a place at the Marchant Calculating Machine Company, taking out several patents for machines manufactured there.
Description
The Swedish-born inventor Carl Friden was stranded in Australia during World War I and then, on his way back to Sweden, decided to settle in California. He found a place at the Marchant Calculating Machine Company, taking out several patents for machines manufactured there. By 1933 he had decided to start his own company. The Friden models A (8-digit entries) and B (10-digit entries) appeared in 1934.
In 1936 the young company introduced this machine, the model C. It featured automatic return clearance for the carriage and dials and was sold in two sizes, one that allowed entry of numbers up to eight digits long (the C 8) and one allowing ten-digit entries (the C 10). This is an early example of the C 10. It has a case painted greenish black. A later version of the model C, introduced in about 1941, had a gray case. It sold until 1949.
The stepped drum, full-keyboard electric non-printing calculating machine has ten columns of black and white plastic number keys, colored to make it easy to distinguish different units of money. A blank clearance key of red plastic is at the bottom of each column. Metal rods between the columns of keys turn to indicate decimal places. On the right are red and black function keys. The machine has no separate keys for multiplication.
Behind the number keys is a movable carriage with an 11-digit revolution register and a 21-digit result register. An arrow above the first column of keys assists in setting the carriage. The result register has plastic buttons above it that can be used to set up numbers. Decimal markers slide above the two registers. Zeroing knobs are on the right of the carriage. The cord is missing. The corners of the machine have metal streamlines. It resembles in key color and general appearance the contemporary Marchant keyboard electric machines built on Friden’s patent.
The machine is marked on the sides: FRIDEN. A second mark, visible through a window at the front of the machine, is: C10-41272. A paper tag glued to the front left of the machine reads: FRIDEN CALCULATIN [...] ACHINE CO. (/) OAKLAND, CALIF. The Friden Calculating Machine Company moved from Oakland to San Leandro in 1936.
Compare the Marchant ERB calculating machine with museum number 1977.1225.01, as well as a later model C 10 with catalog number MA.335422.
This machine was transferred to the collections from the Office of Exhibits at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History in 1982. It had no Smithsonian Institution tag.
References:
Carl Holm, “Milestones in the Development of Friden.”
Ernie Jorgenson, Friden Age List, Office Machine Americana, p. 1
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1936
maker
Friden Calculating Machine Company
ID Number
1982.0243.01
catalog number
1982.0243.01
accession number
1982.0243
maker number
C10 41272
This modification of Friden’s fully automatic STW calculating machine allows for “back transfer.” That is to say, it has a mechanism to transfer figures from the accumulator register to the keyboard selecting levers and vice versa.
Description
This modification of Friden’s fully automatic STW calculating machine allows for “back transfer.” That is to say, it has a mechanism to transfer figures from the accumulator register to the keyboard selecting levers and vice versa. The model was manufactured from 1959 until 1965.
The full-keyboard electric non-printing stepped drum machine has a metal frame painted tan and ten columns of brown and white plastic keys, with a blank white key at the bottom of each column. Metal rods between the columns of keys and under the keyboard turn to indicate decimal points. On the right are two columns of function bars. On the left is a nine-digit register that indicates numbers entered for multiplication. Below it is a block of nine white digit keys, with a 0 bar below. These are surrounded by further levers and function keys, including a split “NEG POS TRANSFER” bar.
Behind the entry keys is a movable carriage with an 11-digit register and a 20-digit result register. The result register has plastic buttons above it that can be used to set up numbers. Nine entry buttons and a clear button are under the revolution register. Zeroing knobs for the registers are on the right of the carriage. A clear carriage bar is toward the front of the keyboard. All three registers have sliding decimal markers. The machine has four hard rubber feet as well as a rubber cord and a tan plastic cover.
A mark on the bottom reads: MODEL SERIAL (/) SBT 10 907698. A mark on the back and side reads: Friden. A sticker on the bottom reads: FRIDEN, INC. (/) SAN LEONARDO, CALIFORNIA, USA. A mark on the cover reads: Friden (/) AUTOMATIC CALCULATOR.
For related documents, see 1984.0475.02, 1984.0475.03, 1984.0475.07, and non-accession 1984.3079.
This is one of five Friden calculating machines given to the Smithsonian by Vincent L. Corrado (1917-1984), a native of Covington, Kentucky, who earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting at Catholic University, served in the U.S. Army from 1942 through 1973, and then joined the Veteran’s Administration for the rest of his life.
The date given is based on the serial number, courtesy of Carl Holm. This is the date of manufacture.
Reference:
Ernie Jorgenson, Friden Age List, Office Machine Americana, p. 5 gives the date 1960 for this machine.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1964
maker
Friden, Inc.
ID Number
1983.0475.01
catalog number
1983.0475.01
accession number
1983.0475
maker number
SBT 10 907698
This full-keyboard, non-printing electric proportional gear calculating machine has a blue metal frame with a black carriage. It has ten columns of green and white all-plastic number keys. At the base of each column is a gray tabulator set key.
Description
This full-keyboard, non-printing electric proportional gear calculating machine has a blue metal frame with a black carriage. It has ten columns of green and white all-plastic number keys. At the base of each column is a gray tabulator set key. These keys are numbered from 1 on the right to 10 on the left. Right of the number keys are division and stop keys, subtraction and addition bars, a non-shift key, a repeat key, a negative multiplication bar, and two carriage shift keys. In front of these are clearance keys for the tab set, the keyboard, and the dials. Right of these is a column of ten keys for automatic multiplication.
Above the number keys is a row of ten windows to show a number set up. Behind this register is a movable carriage with an 20-window result register and an 11-window revolution register. The registers on the carriage have reversible decimal markers. The motor is at the back of the machine, inside the case. There are four rubber feet.
A tag attached to the bottom of the machine reads: 10FA-321409; MARCHANT. A property tag on the back reads: SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION (/) 85612. A black paper tag pasted to the bottom of the machine reads: Manufactured by (/) MARCHANT CALCULATING MACHINE COMPANY (/) OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA, U.S.A. It also reads (the last in a list of patents): 2502321. It also reads: Figuremaster.
The Marchant Model 10FA was introduced in 1948 and sold through 1950 (it is not on the GSA Price List for July, 1951-June, 1952). This example was used in the Division of Extractive Industries at what was then the Smtihsonian’s Museum of History and Technology.
Reference:
SCM Collection.
Accession file.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1950
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Co.
ID Number
1983.0476.01
maker number
10FA-321409
catalog number
1983.0476.01
accession number
1983.0476
This lever-set, non-printing manually operated pinwheel calculating machine has a metal housing and metal base, both painted black. The nine levers for setting entries are topped with red or white plastic covers.
Description
This lever-set, non-printing manually operated pinwheel calculating machine has a metal housing and metal base, both painted black. The nine levers for setting entries are topped with red or white plastic covers. A bar in front of the levers can be raised to zero them (there is no entry register). The steel operating crank with wooden handle extends from the right side of the machine. It rotates backward (clockwise) for addition and multiplication and forward (counterclockwise) for subtraction and division.
At the front of the machine is a movable carriage with 13 windows that show dials of the result register on the right and nine windows for the revolution register on the left. Dials in the revolution register are black for addition and red for subtraction. Decimal markers slide above both of these registers and above the setting levers. Moving a sturdy brass lever at the front shifts the carriage. A zeroing lever on the right side of the carriage zeros the result register when turned clockwise, and the revolution register when turned counterclockwise. The machine has a metal base with rubber feet, but has no cover.
A triangular metal tag attached left of the levers reads: MARCHANT (/) CALCULATORS (/) SIMPLICITY (/) ACCURACY (/) SPEED. A worn paper tag glued to the back of the machine reads: MANUFACTURED BY (/) MARCHANT CALCULATING MACHINE (/) OAKLAND CALIFORNIA U.S.A. (/) PATENTED IN UNITED STATES & FOREIGN COUNTRIES (/) UNITED STATES [. . .] 76,197 DEC 4. 1923 (/) AUSTRALIA 5,861 March 2. 1922 (/) CANADA 239,984 MAY 13. 1924 (/) CHILE 4,884 OCT 18. 1922 (/) GREAT BRITAIN 185,852 June 14. 1921 (/) HOLLAND & COLONIES 11,299 April 16. 1924 (/) JAPAN 40,871 NOV. 30 1921 (/) SOUTH AFRICA 78 JAN 27. 1922 (/) OTHER UNITED STATES AND FOREIGN PATENTS (/) ISSUED AND PENDING. No serial number found.
According to Marchant Math-Mechanics, a publication for the sales staff of Marchant, the model XLA was introduced in 1928 as a relatively inexpensive calculating machine that could be placed “on every desk.” It cost $125, and had a smaller capacity than the model XL. The experiment proved unsuccessful, and the machine was discontinued in 1931.
Reference:
Marchant Math-Mechanics, vol. 7, 1940, p. 132.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1930
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Co.
ID Number
1984.0682.02
catalog number
1984.0682.02
accession number
1984.0682
This full-keyboard, non-printing electric proportional gear calculating machine has a metal case painted gray and eight columns of green and white color-coded oval plastic keys. A red clearance key is at the bottom of each column. The underlying keyboard is light gray.
Description
This full-keyboard, non-printing electric proportional gear calculating machine has a metal case painted gray and eight columns of green and white color-coded oval plastic keys. A red clearance key is at the bottom of each column. The underlying keyboard is light gray. Between banks of keys are metal rods for decimal markers.
Right of the number keys are auto divide and stop keys, subtraction and addition bars, shift keys for use in multiplication, and a reverse key. In front of these are clearance keys for the keyboard, the tab setting, and the dials. Right of these is a column of ten keys for automatic multiplication and two carriage shift keys. Above the number keys is a row of eight windows to show a number set up (the decimal markers extend from between the number keys to between these windows).
Behind this register is a movable carriage with an 16-window result register and a nine-window revolution register. Decimal markers slide above the registers on the carriage. To the left of the revolution register is a row of six buttons used in setting tabs. The motor is at the back of the machine, inside the case. Numbers are represented by the rotation of sets of gears on three shafts under the carriage.
A mark on the sides and back of the machine reads: MARCHANT. A metal tag attached to the bottom reads: ACR8M-190554
The machine has a green rubber cord and a gray plastic cover. A label on the front is from an office supply store in Baltimore, Md.
Compare to Harold T. Avery’s 1940 U.S. patents 2,216,659, 2,211,736, and 2,217,195. See 1979.3084.106 for related trade literature. The model ACR8M was manufactured from at least 1942 until 1948.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1943
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Company, Inc.
ID Number
1984.0682.03
catalog number
1984.0682.03
accession number
1984.0682
maker number
ACR8M-190554
This full-keyboard, non-printing manually operated pinwheel calculating machine has a metal frame painted black and nine columns of black and white plastic keys. At the base of each bank of keys is a red clearance key.
Description
This full-keyboard, non-printing manually operated pinwheel calculating machine has a metal frame painted black and nine columns of black and white plastic keys. At the base of each bank of keys is a red clearance key. The columns of the keyboard are identified below the keys, going from right to left. The underlying keyboard is painted green. Between banks of keys are rotating metal rods for decimal markers.
Right of the number keys is a red clear key and a red ADD key. When the add key is depressed, the keyboard clears after each operation.The operating crank on the right rotates backward (clockwise) for addition and multiplication and forward (counterclockwise) for subtraction and division. It is further toward the front of the machine than on the model KC, and has no stop.
Behind the keyboard is a movable carriage with the 18-window result register. A crank at the front of the machine shifts the carriage and a mechanism on the left end of the carriage apparently is meant to clear it. Behind and above the carriage is a row of nine windows showing digits entered, a lever that can be set for multiplication or division, and a row of nine windows for the revolution register. A small crank on the right side clears this register. Metal rods with sliding decimal markers are above all three registers. The machine has four rubber feet. A bell rings when the result passes through zero.
Plates attached to the right and left sides read: MARCHANT. Metal plate to the right of the keyboard reads: MARCHANT (/) CALCULATORS (/) SIMPLICITY (/) ACCURACY (/) SPEED. Metal tag attached to base reads: H9-8090. Masking tape on the top of the machine reads: 1250, Mark on bottom of machine reads:10004.
The model H9 was introduced in 1927. It sold for $350 in 1930 and 1931. In 1933, the “MARCHANT” plates on the sides of the machine were replaced by lettering on the sides, hence the date given.
References:
Business Machines and Equipment Digest, 1928, vol. I, p. 9-23;
Office Machines Research Service, 1938, vol. 3, 4.31, p. 1–6; 1979.3084.98.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1930
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Co.
ID Number
1985.0821.01
catalog number
1985.0821.01
accession number
1985.0821
maker number
H9-8090
This full-keyboard, non-printing electric pinwheel calculating machine has nine columns of plastic keys, colored according to the place value of digits entered. At the base of each bank of keys is a red clearance key. The underlying keyboard is painted green.
Description
This full-keyboard, non-printing electric pinwheel calculating machine has nine columns of plastic keys, colored according to the place value of digits entered. At the base of each bank of keys is a red clearance key. The underlying keyboard is painted green. Between banks of keys are metal rods for decimal markers. To the right of the keyboard are bars for subtraction and addition; a red ADD key, depressed for automatic clearance after each operation; and a stem for a clear key (the key is missing). Still further to the right is a column of nine keys for automatic multiplication. Left of the keyboard is a switch for the motor.
Behind the keyboard is a movable carriage with 18 windows for the result register. Above this is a nine-digit entry register and a nine-digit revolution register. Clearance keys for these registers are to the right. At the back of the machine is the electric motor. The machine has an aluminum base and four rubber feet.
A mark on metal tags attached to the sides of the machine reads: MARCHANT. A sticker attached to the back reads: MANUFACTURED BY (/) MARCHANT CALCULATING MACHINE CO. (/) OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA U.S.A. (/) PATENTED IN UNITED STATES & FOREIGN COUNTRIES (/) UNITED STATES 1,476,197 DEC. 4, 1923 (/) AUSTRALIA 5,861 MARCH 2, 1922 (/) CANADA 239,984 MAY 13, 1924 (/) CHILE 4,884 OCT. 18, 1922 (/) GREAT BRITAIN 185,552 JUNE 14, 1921 (/) HOLLAND & COLONIES 11,299 APRIL 16, 1924 (/) JAPAN 40,871 NOV.30, 1921 (/) SOUTH AFRICA 78 JAN. 27, 1922 (/) OTHER UNITED STATES AND FOREIGN PATENTS (/) ISSUED AND PENDING. A metal tag attached to the motor reads: MANUFACTURED FOR (/) MARCHANT (/) CALCULATING (/) MACHINE CO. (/) SIMPLICITY (/) ACCURACY (/) SPEED. It also reads: WESTINGHOUSE ELEC. & MFG. CO. A mark on the bottom of the machine reads: EB9-9060.
The Marchant EB9 was introduced in 1926. The style of labels on the machines indicates that it was made before 1933. It sold for $550 in 1930 and was superseded that year by the EE.
Compare 1984.3084.88.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1930
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Co.
ID Number
1988.0265.01
catalog number
1988.0265.01
accession number
1988.0265
maker number
EB9-9060
This full-keyboard, non-printing electric proportional gear calculating machine has a metal case painted black and ten columns of green and white color-coded plastic keys. There is a red tabulator set key at the bottom of each column.
Description
This full-keyboard, non-printing electric proportional gear calculating machine has a metal case painted black and ten columns of green and white color-coded plastic keys. There is a red tabulator set key at the bottom of each column. These keys are numbered from 1 on the right to 10 on the left. The underlying keyboard is gold. Between banks of keys are rotating metal rods for decimal markers.
Right of the number keys are auto divide and stop keys, subtraction and addition bars, shift keys for use in multiplication, and a reverse key. In front of these are clearance keys for the tab set and the dials. Right of these is a column of ten keys for automatic multiplication and two carriage shift keys. Above the number keys is a row of ten windows to show a number set up (the decimal markers extend from between the number keys to between these windows).
Behind the entry register is a movable carriage with an 20-window result register and an 11-window revolution register. The registers on the carriage have sliding decimal markers. The motor is at the back of the machine, inside the case. Numbers are represented by the rotation of sets of gears on three shafts under the carriage. The machine sits on a stand (1988.0313.02) and has a black rubber cord.
A mark on the back of the machine reads: MARCHANT. A mark on the bottom reads: ACT10M-186265. A property tag at the front reads: PROPERTY OF (/) ESSA (/) 132015. A tag at the back reads: NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS (/) 510780.
In July 1966, part of the National Bureau of Standards merged with the Coast & Geodetic Survey and the Weather Bureau to form the Environmental Science Services Administration. In 1970, the activities of the ESSA were transferred to the newly extablished National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, which was part of the National Institutes of Standards and Technology (formerly NBS). This machine was transferred to the Smithsonian by NOAA.
Compare to Harold T. Avery’s 1940 U.S. patents 2,216,659, 2,211,736, and 2,217,195. See SCM Collection for related trade literature. The model ACT10M apparently was produced from 1940 until 1948.
References:
“Operating Instructions Marchant Calculators,” Oakland: Marchant Calculating Machine Company, 1942 (1979.3084.106).
“Model ACT-10M,” Oakland: Marchant Calculators, Inc., Form AC-4 (1979.3084.107.2)
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1942
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Company, Inc.
ID Number
1988.0315.01
catalog number
1988.0315.01
accession number
1988.0315
maker number
ACT10M-186265
Those who bought calculating machines often purchased stands on which to use them. This one was designed to support the Marchant ACT10M machine. It is made of iron and steel tubing, with four rubber wheels and a wooden shelf.
Description
Those who bought calculating machines often purchased stands on which to use them. This one was designed to support the Marchant ACT10M machine. It is made of iron and steel tubing, with four rubber wheels and a wooden shelf. The dimensions given assume the shelf is down.
A label on the front of the stand reads: Property of (/) UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT (/) Environmental Science (/) Services Administration
For related object, see 1988.0315.01.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1942
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Company, Inc.
ID Number
1988.0315.02
catalog number
1988.0315.02
accession number
1988.0315
This full-keyboard, non-printing electric proportional gear calculating machine is blue and gray with a metal frame and mechanism, plastic keys and cover, a cloth lining for the frame, and rubber feet. The eight columns of green and white keys have nine keys per column.
Description
This full-keyboard, non-printing electric proportional gear calculating machine is blue and gray with a metal frame and mechanism, plastic keys and cover, a cloth lining for the frame, and rubber feet. The eight columns of green and white keys have nine keys per column. A column of ten gray keys on the right allows automatic multiplication. Eight wheels display the number entered. Function keys are for addition, subtraction, division, stop, non shift, NEG X, carriage movement (to the right and to the left), and clearing (four keys).
On the carriage at the back are eight wheels for the revolution counter and 16 wheels for the result. Decimal markers slide between the entry and the result registers. Reversible decimal markers turn between windows of the registers on the carriage. The carriage also has a wheel for selection of carriage position.
Inside the case is an electric motor made by General Electric.
A metal tag attached to the bottom of the machine reads: 8DRX-426300. A mark below the keys reads: MARCHANT fIGUREMATIC. A mark on the right and left sides reads: MARCHANT.
The machine was given to the donor by an insurance company employee named Williams.
References:
Accession file.
SCM Collection.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1955
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Co.
ID Number
1994.0307.001
maker number
8DRX-426300
catalog number
1994.0307.001
accession number
1994.0307
This full-keyboard, non-printing electric proportional gear calculating machine has ten columns of green and white oval plastic keys. A red clearance key is at the bottom of each column. Rods between the columns of keys turn to serve as decimal markers.
Description
This full-keyboard, non-printing electric proportional gear calculating machine has ten columns of green and white oval plastic keys. A red clearance key is at the bottom of each column. Rods between the columns of keys turn to serve as decimal markers. The rods and the keyboard are painted brown on one side. The rods are white on the other side. A row of windows above the keys shows the digits entered. To the right are addition, subtraction, multiplication, and SHORT CUT bars; clearance keys for the keyboard, the middle dial, and the upper dial; automatic divide and stop keys; and carriage shift keys.
Behind the keyboard is a movable carriage with a ten-digit revolution register and a 20-digit result register. The registers have sliding decimal markers. A lever on the right can be depressed to release the carriage. The machine has four rubber feet, a rubber electric cord, and a plastic cover.
The sides and back are marked: MARCHANT. The serial number tag attached to the base reads: 10-D-157365. Penciled on the base are the dates 10-9-45 and 9-27-43. A paper label on the base reads: Manufactured by (/) MARCHANT CALCULATING MACHINE COMPANY, Inc. (/) OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA, U. S. A. (/) Made in U.S.A. (/) United States Patent 1640493. It also reads: 2229630. It also reads: Canada, Patented 1931, 1933, 1936, 1940. A mark on the cover reads: OFFICE MACHINES CO. (/) SALES & SERVICE (/) 2330 WYOMING (/) 532-5655
This model was the first of the Marchant “Silent Speed” machines. It was advertised as having “The Silent Speed of Lightning without the Thunder.” The model 10D was manufactured from 1934 to 1942. This example was owned and used by Curtis R. Taylor (b. 1902). Taylor became interested in surveying while serving in the U. S. Army, and took a correspondence course on the subject after his discharge. He worked for several years as a surveyor in Colorado and New Mexico, and became interested in civil engineering. Studying mathematics and engineering on his own, he took and passed the licensing examination in civil engineering in the state of Texas in 1948. He then worked for government agencies such as the Texas State Highway Department, the City of Houston, and Prince Georges County, Md.
Mr. Taylor carried his Marchant calculating machine in a battered white suitcase which was in poor condition when it arrived at the Museum and was not retained.
For related documentation, the pamphlet “Marchant Methods for Highway & Railroad Engineers,” see 1999.0139.02.
References:
SCM Collection.
Accession File.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1942
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Company, Inc.
ID Number
1999.0139.01
catalog number
1999.0139.01
maker number
10-D-157365
accession number
1999.0139
In 1917 the Marchant Calculating Machine Company introduced this compact, lightweight version of its lever-set, non-printing manually operated calculating machine. This is an early example of that “Pony” model.The machine has a black steel housing and a wooden base.
Description
In 1917 the Marchant Calculating Machine Company introduced this compact, lightweight version of its lever-set, non-printing manually operated calculating machine. This is an early example of that “Pony” model.
The machine has a black steel housing and a wooden base. The case is missing. Nine levers rotate forward to set pinwheels. Color-coded numbers between the levers indicate digits set. There is no entry register. Rotating a bar in front of the levers upward zeros an entry. A steel operating crank with a wooden handle extends from the right side of the machine. It rotates backward (clockwise) for addition and multiplication and forward (counterclockwise) for subtraction and division.
A movable carriage at the front of the machine has the 13 windows of the result register on the right and the eight windows of revolution register on the left. The revolution register has no carry mechanism. Sliding decimal markers are above both the entry levers and the registers on the carriage. To move the carriage, one depresses two bars in a metal box at the front of the machine. Wing nuts at the ends of the carriage rotate to zero the registers on it. A bell on the left side of the carriage rings when the result passes through zero. A layer of felt separates the machine and its wooden base.
A metal tag attached to the front of the machine reads: The (/) Marchant (/) MANUFACTURED BY (/) MARCHANT CALCULATING (/) MACHINE CO., Inc. (/) OAKLAND, CAL. (/) PATENTED JUNE 6. 1911 (/) FEB. 22. 1916. The serial number, stamped on the left of the back of the machine, is: No30004. Another maker’s mark, on the back of the carriage at the left, is: 659. The mark of the Museum of the Peaceful Arts is: 27-87
Compare to MA.323602 (different shift control, standard model), MA. 314637 (standard model) .
This machine is from the collection of L. Leland Locke, and was at one time on deposit at the Museums of the Peaceful Arts in New York City.
References:
Accession File.
J. H. McCarthy, The American Digest of Business Machines, Chicago: American Exchange Service, 1924, p. 549.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1918
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Company, Inc.
ID Number
MA.311952
catalog number
311952
accession number
155183
maker number
30004/659
On February 23, 1911, Rodney H. Marchant of Oakland, California applied for a patent for an improvement in calculating machines. The machine he envisioned was a pinwheel device, with a superior carriage to that of the Odhner, Brunsviga, and Dactyle calculating machines. R. H.
Description
On February 23, 1911, Rodney H. Marchant of Oakland, California applied for a patent for an improvement in calculating machines. The machine he envisioned was a pinwheel device, with a superior carriage to that of the Odhner, Brunsviga, and Dactyle calculating machines. R. H. Marchant soon joined with his brother to manufacture machines under the name of Marchant Brothers. In 1913, the Marchant Calculating Machine Company took over the assets of Marchant Brothers and began a systematic campaign to sell its machines, particularly in the western United States. This is an example of a relatively early machine, manufactured under 1911 and 1916 patents of R. H. Marchant.
The lever-set non-printing pinwheel machine has a black steel housing, a wooden base, and a black metal case. Nine levers rotate to set the pinwheels, with color-coded numbers marked on the spaces between them. A bar in front of the levers can be shifted to assist in zeroing them. A steel crank with a wooden handle that extends from the right side of the machine rotates backward (clockwise) for addition and multiplication and forward (counterclockwise) for subtraction and division.
At the front of the machine is a movable carriage with 13 windows that show dials of the result register on the right and eight windows for the revolution register on the left. The revolution register has no carry mechanism. The digits in this register are white for additions and red for subtractions. Decimal markers slide above both the registers on the carriage. A lever at the bottom front of the machine is depressed to allow shifting of the carriage. Wing nuts at the ends of the carriage zero the registers on it. A bell on the left end of the carriage rings when the result passes through zero.
The metal case fits over the machine and its wooden base, with a key at the front and four rubber feet. The machine and base are separated by a layer of felt, as on other pinwheel machines. The screws holding the machine to the base are missing.
A mark on a metal tag attached to the front of the machine reads: The (/) Marchant (/) MANUFACTURED BY (/) MARCHANT CALCULATING (/) MACHINE CO., Inc. (/) OAKLAND, CAL. (/) PATENTED JUNE 6. 1911 (/) FEB. 22. 1916. A mark scratched on the back of the machine reads: 2056. A mark on the back of the carriage at the left reads: 306. A mark on the case reads: MARCHANT (/) OAKLAND, CAL.
Compare Marchant calculating machines 311952 (different shift control from 323602, Pony size), 314637 (different shift control from 323602), 323602, and 335268. Also compare these machines to Brunsviga machines 313426, 315904, etc.
This example of a Marchant calculating machine is from the collection of Felt & Tarrant Manufacturing Company.
References:
R. H. Marchant, "Calculating-Machine," U.S. Patent 994,414, June 6, 1911.
R. H. Marchant, "Calculating-Machine," U.S. Patent 1,172,817, February 22, 1916. Marchant filed for this patent in 1914.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1917
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Company, Inc.
ID Number
MA.323602
accession number
250163
catalog number
323602
maker number
2056/306
This lever-set, non-printing manually operated calculating machine has a black steel housing and a wooden base. Rotating the levers sets the pinwheels to enter a number. Color-coded digits marked on the spaces between the levers indicate the digits set.
Description
This lever-set, non-printing manually operated calculating machine has a black steel housing and a wooden base. Rotating the levers sets the pinwheels to enter a number. Color-coded digits marked on the spaces between the levers indicate the digits set. A bar in front of the levers rotates for zeroing. The wooden-handled steel operating crank extends from the right side of the machine. It rotates backward (clockwise) for addition and multiplication and forward (counterclockwise) for subtraction and division.
At the front of the machine is a movable carriage with 13 windows showing dials of the result register on the right and eight windows for the revolution register on the left. The revolution register has no carry. The dials in this register have red digits for subtraction and white ones for addition. Decimal markers slide above both registers on the carriage. The two bars in a metal box at the front of the machine assist in moving the carriage in either direction. Wing nuts at the ends of the carriage zero the registers on it. A bell on the left side of the carriage rings when the result passes through zero. A layer of felt separates the machine and its wooden base. The lid is missing.
A metal plate to the left of the levers reads: The (/) Marchant (/) MANUFACTURED BY (/) MARCHANT CALCULATING (/) MACHINE CO., Inc. (/) OAKLAND, CAL. (/) PATENTED JUNE 6. 1911 (/) FEB. 22. 1916. the serial number on the back reads: No5398. A mark on the back of the carriage at the left reads: 1705.
Compare MA.335268, MA.323602, and MA.323603.
This machine comes from the collection of Felt & Tarrant Manufacturing Company.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1918
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Company, Inc.
ID Number
MA.323603
catalog number
323603
accession number
250163
maker number
5398/1705
This full-keyboard, non-printing electric duplex pinwheel calculating machine has a metal case painted black and eight columns of black and white color-coded plastic keys. A red clearance key is at the bottom of each column. The underlying keyboard is painted green.
Description
This full-keyboard, non-printing electric duplex pinwheel calculating machine has a metal case painted black and eight columns of black and white color-coded plastic keys. A red clearance key is at the bottom of each column. The underlying keyboard is painted green. Between banks of keys are metal rods for decimal markers. Right of the number keys are red plastic ADD and CLEAR keys, as well as an unmarked red key. When the add key is depressed, the keyboard clears after each operation. Above the clear key are subtraction and addition bars. Right of these is a black lever for use in division. Left of the number keys is the switch for turning on the motor.
In back of the keyboard is a movable carriage with two registers. The upper register has 13 dials and is used to find results as on a usual Marchant machine. The lower register has 15 dials and will total results obtained in the upper register if a lever on the left side of the carriage is set at T. Behind this are eight windows for showing digits entered, a lever that may be set at multiplication or division, and seven windows for the revolution register. There are two black keys next to the carriage to clear the registers, as well as a TOTAL CLEAR key to the left of the revolution register. A metal carriage shift handle is at the front, and the motor is at the back. The machine has a black cord.
A metal plate attached to the left side of the machine reads: MARCHANT. A metal tag on the base has a tag with the serial number: DRB8-1157. Stamped on the base is the number 10060. A mark on the back top of the machine reads: MANUFACTURED FOR (/) THE (/) MARCHANT (/) CALCULATING (/) MACHINE CO. (/) SIMPLICITY (/) ACCURACY (/) SPEED. a metal tag on the motor reads: WESTINGHOUSE ELEC. & MFG. CO. Another mark on this tag reads: 139238.
The style of the MARCHANT label on the side of the machine indicates that it dates before 1933.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1931
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Company
ID Number
MA.323610
catalog number
323610
accession number
250163
maker number
DRB8-1157
This lever-set, non-printing, manually operated pinwheel calculating machine has a metal housing painted black. Near the center of the machine are nine rotating levers for entering numbers. An entry register is above the levers, and a zeroing bar in front of them.
Description
This lever-set, non-printing, manually operated pinwheel calculating machine has a metal housing painted black. Near the center of the machine are nine rotating levers for entering numbers. An entry register is above the levers, and a zeroing bar in front of them. The nine-window revolution register is right of the levers. The operating crank is on the right side, along with a zeroing knob for the revolution register. Between the entry levers and the revolution register is a knob which can be set on multiplication or division.
In front of the levers is a carriage with the 18 wheels of the result register, as well as a handle for zeroing this register. The carriage shift lever is at the front of the machine. All three registers have sliding decimal markers.
A metal plate to the left of the levers reads: MARCHANT (/) CALCULATORS (/) SIMPLICITY (/) ACCURACY (/) SPEED. A mark on the back reads: MARCHANT. Another mark there reads: MANUFACTURED BY (/) MARCHANT CALCULATING MACHINE CO. (/) OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA U.S.A. (/) PATENTED IN UNITED STATES & FOREIGN COUNTRIES (/) UNITED STATES 1,476,197 DEC 4. 1923 (/) AUSTRALIA 5,861 March 2. 1922 (/) CANADA 239,984 MAY 13. 1924 (/) CHILE 4,884 OCT 18. 1922 (/) GREAT BRITAIN 185,852 June 14. 1921 (/) HOLLAND & COLONIES 11,299 April 16. 1924 (/) JAPAN 40,871 NOV. 30 1921 (/) SOUTH AFRICA 78 JAN 27. 1922 (/) OTHER UNITED STATES AND FOREIGN PATENTS (/) ISSUED AND PENDING. The serial number, stamped on the base, is XL92485.
The Marchant Manufacturing Company of Oakland, California began manufacturing calculating machines in 1911. As the marks on this machine indicate, by the 1920s it was selling machines across the globe. According to the accession file, this machine was acquired by the Smithsonian in 1928 for $208.25. It was used from that time until 1964 by William Johnson for calculations relating to Smithsonian finances, and transferred to the collections when Mr. Johnson retired.
References:
Accession file.
J. H. McCarthy, The American Digest of Business Machines, Chicago: American Exchange Service, 1924, p. 549.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1928
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Co.
ID Number
MA.325764
catalog number
325764
accession number
257691
maker number
XL92485
This manually operated, lever-set and non-printing pinwheel calculating machine has a black steel housing and a wooden base. Nine levers rotate forward to set digits on the pinwheels, with color-coded digits marked on the spaces between the levers.
Description
This manually operated, lever-set and non-printing pinwheel calculating machine has a black steel housing and a wooden base. Nine levers rotate forward to set digits on the pinwheels, with color-coded digits marked on the spaces between the levers. A row of nine dials in back of the levers records the number entered. A bar in front of the levers can be raised to zero them, and a wing nut on the left side rotates to zero the entry register. The steel operating crank with its wood handle extends from the right side of the machine and rotates backward (clockwise) for addition and multiplication and forward (counterclockwise) for subtraction and division.
A movable carriage at the front has 18 windows that show dials of the result register on the right and ten windows for the revolution register on the left. The digits in the revolution register are white for additions and red for subtractions. Decimal markers slide above all three registers. A metal box at the front of the machine holds two bars, one for moving the carriage in either direction. Wing nuts at the ends of the carriage zero the registers on it. A bell is on the left side of the machine.
A metal tag to the left of the levers reads: The (/) Marchant (/) MANUFACTURED BY (/) MARCHANT CALCULATING (/) MACHINE CO., Inc. (/) OAKLAND, CAL. (/) PATENTED JUNE 6. 1911 (/) FEB. 22. 1916. A metal tag attached to the back reads: 81399. A mark on the back of the carriage to the left reads: A1216. A metal tag attached to the base reads: DONATED BY (/) BENHAM ENGINEERING COMPANY (/) CONSULTING ENGINEERS (/) OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA (/) USED BY FOUNDER (/) COL. WEBSTER L. BENHAM (/) PAST NATIONAL DIRECTOR, ASCE
A layer of felt separates the machine and its wooden base. The base is not rectangular, but curved to follow the profile of the machine It has 3 rubber feet and fits inside a leather-covered, velvet-lined box.
This calculating machine was used by consulting engineer Webster Lance Benham (1882–1952), a veteran of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, in his work at Benham Engineering Company in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He founded that firm in 1909. The date of the machine is deduced from the serial number.
Compare to the Marchant Model A Pony (MA.311952), which only will calculate 13-digit products.
References:
J. H. McCarthy, The American Digest of Business Machines, Chicago: American Exchange Service, 1924, p. 549.
Accession file.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1922
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Company, Inc.
ID Number
MA.328417
catalog number
328417
accession number
272525
maker number
81399/A1216
By 1939 Friden Calculating Machine Company had introduced a “Supermatic” version of its calculating machine that featured multiplication by direct entry of digits (rather than repeated addition).
Description
By 1939 Friden Calculating Machine Company had introduced a “Supermatic” version of its calculating machine that featured multiplication by direct entry of digits (rather than repeated addition). This is an example of that full-keyboard non-printing electric stepped drum machine. It has a metal frame painted gray and ten columns of color-coded gray and blue-green plastic number keys, with a blank green key at the bottom of each column.
Metal rods between the columns of keys turn to indicate decimal places. On the right are two columns of function bars and keys. On the left is a register that indicates numbers entered for multiplication. Below it is a block of 9 white digit keys, with a 0 bar below. These are surrounded by further levers and function keys.
Behind the number keys is a movable carriage with an 11-digit register and a 21-digit result register. The result register has plastic buttons above it that can be used to set up numbers. Zeroing knobs for the registers are on the right of the carriage. Decimal markers slide below the two registers on the carriage. The machine has four hard rubber feet. An electric cord attachs to the machine at the back.
A mark on the bottom of the machine reads: S10-105632. A mark on the back and sides reads: FRIDEN. A sticker attached to the bottom reads: MODEL S. It also reads: FRIDEN CALCULATING MACHINE CO., INC. [() MADE IN SAN LEANDRO, CALIFORNIA, U.S.A. It also reads: DESIGN PAT. 103,425.
Design patent D103,425 was granted to Carl M. Friden March 2, 1937. According to Carl Holm of Neopost, the model S 10 was introduced in 1938. The date given is from Jorgenson.
Reference:
Ernie Jorgenson, Friden Age List, Office Machine Americana, p. 2.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1939
maker
Friden Calculating Machine Company, Inc.
ID Number
MA.334378
catalog number
334378
accession number
313935
maker number
S10 105632
This stepped drum full-keyboard electric non-printing calculating machine has a metal frame painted brownish gray (taupe) and ten columns of brown and gray plastic number keys, with a blank gray plastic zeroing key at the bottom of each column.
Description
This stepped drum full-keyboard electric non-printing calculating machine has a metal frame painted brownish gray (taupe) and ten columns of brown and gray plastic number keys, with a blank gray plastic zeroing key at the bottom of each column. Metal rods between columns of keys turn under the keyboard to indicate decimal places. A small brown and tan bar slides to the right to reset the decimal rods. The capabilities of the Friden STW-10 are quite similar to those of the earlier ST-10, although the exterior design and color are different. The model was introduced in 1949 and manufactured through 1966.
On the right are two columns of function bars. On the left is a ten-digit register that indicates numbers entered for multiplication. Below it is a block of nine white digit keys, with a 0 bar below. These are surrounded by three levers and four function keys.
Behind the number keys is a movable carriage with an 11-digit revolution register and a 20-digit result register. Taupe plastic buttons above the result register rotate to set up numbers. Ten numbered buttons under the revolution register are spaced between the digits. A zeroing knobs for the registers is on the top right of the carriage. All three registers have sliding decimal markers.
The machine has four hard rubber feet. There is a rubber cord and a tan plastic cover. A mark on the bottom of the machine reads: S82 (/) STW 10. The original serial number next to the model number has been effaced. Marks on the back and side read: FRIDEN. A mark on the cover reads: Friden (/) AUTOMATIC CALCULATOR. A mark on a sticker on the bottom of the machine reads: FRIDEN, INC. (/) SAN LEANDRO, CALIFORNIA, U.S.A. A mark on the cord reads: SINGER.
Compare MA.334379, MA.335419 and 1984.3079.04.
Reference:
Carl Holm, “Milestones in the Development of Friden.”
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1954
maker
Friden, Inc.
ID Number
MA.334379
accession number
313935
catalog number
334379
maker number
S-82
This is one of the last calculating machines manufactured by the Friden Division of The Singer Company.
Description
This is one of the last calculating machines manufactured by the Friden Division of The Singer Company. The full-keyboard electric non-printing machine has a metal frame painted brownish gray (taupe), a keyboard painted brown, and ten columns of brown and tan plastic number keys, with a blank tan clearance key at the bottom of each column. Metal rods between the columns of keys turn to indicate decimal places (in orange).
To the right are two columns of function bars. On the left is a nine-digit register that indicates numbers entered for multiplication. A knob for this register is on the left side of the machine. Below the register is a block of nine white digit keys, with a 0 bar below. These are surrounded by further levers and function keys.
The movable carriage at the back of the machine has an 11-digit revolution register and a 21-digit result register. Plastic buttons above the result register rotate to set up numbers. Ten numbered buttons are under the revolution register. Zeroing knobs for the registers are on the right of the carriage. These registers have sliding decimal markers as well. The machine has a thick piece of felt attached to the base, a rubber cord, and a light tan plastic cover.
A mark on the bottom of the machine reads: MODEL SERIAL (/) SVJ 24448. A mark on the sides reads: Friden. A mark on the cover reads: Friden (/) AUTOMATIC CALCULATOR. A sticker on the bottom reads: FRIDEN, INC. (/) SAN LEANDRO, CALIFORNIA, U.S.A.. A mark on the cord reads: SINGER.
Date based on serial number, courtesy of Carl Holm.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1966
maker
Friden, Inc.
ID Number
MA.334380
catalog number
334380
accession number
313935
maker number
SVJ 24448
As early as 1952, the Friden Calculating Machine Company produced a calculating machine that would find the square root of a number entered by simply pushing a key. In 1962 the firm introduced this machine, which would find squares of numbers as well as square roots.
Description
As early as 1952, the Friden Calculating Machine Company produced a calculating machine that would find the square root of a number entered by simply pushing a key. In 1962 the firm introduced this machine, which would find squares of numbers as well as square roots. It was manufactured until 1965.
The full-keyboard electric non-printing stepped drum calculating machine has a metal frame painted tan and ten columns of light tan and brown plastic number keys, with a brown key at the bottom of each column. The keys at the bottom of the columns are numbered, from left to right, 0 9 9 8 8 7 7 6 6 5 5. These keys are used to set the decimal point in a number whose root is to be taken, and to begin the taking of the root. Metal rods between the columns of keys and under the keyboard turn to indicate decimal places in ordinary arithmetic.
On the right are two columns of function bars. On the left is a register for recording multipliers, with nine light tan keys and a zero bar for entering numbers. Around these keys are three levers and four function keys.
Behind the number keys is a movable carriage with an 11-digit revolution register and a 21-digit result register. White plastic buttons above the result register rotate to set up numbers. Ten numbered buttons are under the revolution register, spaced between the digits. The clearing button is marked C. Zeroing knobs for the registers are on the right of the carriage. All three registers have sliding decimal markers. The base of the machine is covered with fiber. It has a black cord.
The sides, back, and front of the machine are marked: FRIDEN. Above this mark is a square-root sign. A superscript 2 is to the right of it. A mark on the bottom reads: MODEL [/] SRQ 10. Another mark there reads: SERIAL S2000. The serial number under the word SERIAL has been effaced.
Reference:
Division files.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1965
maker
The Singer Company. Friden Division
ID Number
MA.334382
catalog number
334382
accession number
313935
maker number
S2000
This full-keyboard electric stepped drum calculating machine is non-printing. It has a metal frame painted gray and ten columns of color-coded light-green and blue-green plastic number keys, with a blank green clearance key at the bottom of each column.
Description
This full-keyboard electric stepped drum calculating machine is non-printing. It has a metal frame painted gray and ten columns of color-coded light-green and blue-green plastic number keys, with a blank green clearance key at the bottom of each column. Metal rods between the columns of keys turn to serve as decimal markers.
On the right are two columns of function bars. To the right of these is another column of blue-green keys, with another green clearance key at the bottom. Pushing these keys allows direct multiplication by a single digit. Friden had introduced this feature in its Model F calculating machine. The model FT, of which this is an example, featured division tabulation as well. The company also sold calculating machines in which multiplication by several-digit numbers could occur automatically (see descriptions of the model S 10).
The movable carriage behind the number keys has an 11-digit multiplier register and a 20-digit result register, both with sliding decimal markers. Plastic buttons above the result register rotate to set up dividends. Ten numbered buttons are under the revolution register. Zeroing knobs for the registers are on the right of the carriage. The machine has four rubber feet.
The serial number, marked on the bottom of the machine is: FT10-79740. The side and back are marked: FRIDEN. A sticker on the bottom reads: MODEL FT. It also reads: FRIDEN CALCULATING MACHINE CO., INC. (/) MADE IN SAN LEANDRO, CALIFORNIA, U.S.A.. It has the patent numbers: 2,273,857, 2,229,901, and D-103,425.
The black plastic cover is marked: IBM.
Date from Ernie Jorgenson.
References:
C. M. F. Friden, "Calculating Machine," U.S. Patent 2,273,857, February 24, 1942.
A. I. Richards, "Calculating Machine," U.S. Patent 2,229,901, January 28, 1941.
C. M. F. Friden, "Design for a Calculating Machine with Shiftable Carriage," U.S. Design Patent D103425, March 2, 1937.
E. Jorgenson, Friden Age List, Office Machine Americana, p. 2.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1946
maker
Friden Calculating Machine Company, Inc.
ID Number
MA.334383
catalog number
334383
accession number
313935
maker number
FT10-79740
This lever-set, non-printing, and manually operated pinwheel calculating machine has a black steel housing, a wooden base, and a black metal case with a leather handle. Niine levers are used to set the pinwheels, with color-coded numbers marked on the spaces between the levers.
Description
This lever-set, non-printing, and manually operated pinwheel calculating machine has a black steel housing, a wooden base, and a black metal case with a leather handle. Niine levers are used to set the pinwheels, with color-coded numbers marked on the spaces between the levers. A bar in front of the levers can be shifted to zero them. A steel crank with a wooden handle extends from the right side of the machine. It rotates backward (clockwise) for addition and multiplication and forward (counterclockwise) for subtraction and division.
At the front of the machine is a movable carriage with 13 windows that show dials of the result register on the right and eight windows for the revolution register on the left. The revolution register has no carry mechanism. Digits in this register are white for addition and red for subtraction. Decimal markers slide above both the registers on the carriage. At the front of the machine are two bars in a metal box, one for moving the carriage in either direction. Wing nuts at the ends of the carriage zero the registers on it. A bell on the left side of the carriage rings when the result passes through zero.
A rectangular metal plaque attached right of the entry levers reads: The (/) Marchant (/) MANUFACTURED BY (/) MARCHANT CALCULATING (/) MACHINE CO., Inc. (/) OAKLAND, CAL. (/) PATENTED JUNE 6. 1911 (/) FEB. 22. 1916. A maker’s number on the back of the machine, is: No 5819. A National Bureau of Standards inventory number, stamped on the base and on the front of the cover is: BS 16940. Another maker’s number, on the back of the carriage at the left, is: 2126.
The metal case that fits over the machine and its wooden base has a lock and key at the front, and four rubber feet.
Compare to MA.323602 (different shift control), MA.311952 (Pony size), and MA.323603.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1918
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Company, Inc.
ID Number
MA.335268
accession number
314637
catalog number
335268
maker number
5819/2126

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